Eileen K. (Kollenberg) Newman

NEWMAN, EILEEN Eileen Kollenberg Newman, 89, died peacefully at home on February 11, 2014, surrounded by loved ones. She was a woman of strength, conviction, and caring. Born in East Grand Rapids to Abraham and Anna Kollenberg, she was the eldest of three sisters (Lois Kahn and Marilyn Dicker of blessed memory). A graduate of Northwestern University and the University of Chicago, Eileen shared her lifelong love of learning in the classroom as a teacher. In 1949, she married the boy down the street, her "most perfect man," Leonard M. Newman of blessed memory. Theirs was a marriage of true abiding love and cherished partnership. They raised their children, son, Dr. Richard Mark Newman of blessed memory) and daughter, Judi Newman, with love and a strong moral compass. They devoted themselves, with cherished daughter-in-law, Sarah Newman, to caring for Rick when he fell ill with ALS. Arm in arm with Lenny, Eileen created a loving environment within their hearts and home. They were the adored and loving Nana and Papa to their grandchildren, Sara Reichenbach Manor (Oded), Joey Reichenbach Amichai (Eran) and Daniel Dolph Reichenbach. Eileen was overjoyed to welcome her great-grandchildren, Liam and Adam Manor, into her heart and family. The pair was gregarious and generous - wherever they went they sought new perspectives and forged long-lasting friendships. Together they travelled the world, acted in a monthly play troupe, enjoyed theater and the symphony, supported the arts and cultural enrichment for the community and their favorite academic institutions (The University of Michigan and The University of Chicago). They actively participated in the Grand Rapids community and the local Jewish community of Temple Emanuel. Eileen identified as a life-long Democrat and supported causes that promoted equality, education and learning. Late in her life, Charity and Jan Atton became special to her ever-widening circle of loving and devoted friends. She leaves behind her daughter, grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces and nephews, and their descendants whose lives will be forever enhanced because she lived and loved so well. Her memory is a blessing. A memorial service is pending. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Leonard and Eileen Newman Tzedaka Fund at Temple Emanuel or to the ALS Chapter West Michigan, 678 Front Street NW, Suite 159, Grand Rapids, MI 49506. The family is being served by: